“It would unquestionably delay it for days, possibly weeks. While we are prepared for the Turks, nevertheless it would probably necessitate the sending of reënforcements toward the border, and naturally I should have to draw upon the forces I am now sending into Hungary.”
“I see,” replied Chester. “But the Turk, as a fighting man, doesn’t amount to much, as I understand it.”
“In the recent Balkan war they did not show much fighting prowess, it is true,” said the Grand Duke, “but officered by Germans, and under German discipline, there may be a different story to tell.”
“But there is no danger of their affecting the ultimate outcome of the war?” asked Hal.
“None,” was the confident reply. “What it will mean, however, is that Turkey, as a nation, will be wiped off the map of Europe, and, possibly, of Asia also.”
“The sooner the better,” was Hal’s comment.
The Grand Duke smiled.
“It may take time,” he said, “but it will be done just so surely as Turkey casts in her fortunes with Germany.”
After some further talk the lads left the Grand Duke’s tent, and rejoined their regiment. Everything was now practically ready for the advance to the southward, and the troops were eagerly awaiting the word that was to send them into the Carpathians, to strike a decisive blow at the Austrians.
And the word was given early the following morning.